Federal government invests millions in new homes for vulnerable communities
- The federal government is providing over $7.7 million for new housing projects in New Brunswick.
- Habitation du Parc will receive funding to build homes for independent seniors, while the Mi'kmaq community will see 21 new family homes.
- These investments are part of a broader strategy to improve affordable housing and support vulnerable populations across Canada.
On November 29, 2024, the federal government announced a significant investment aimed at addressing housing shortages in New Brunswick, specifically targeting vulnerable populations. This announcement was made in Saint-Quentin at Habitations du Parc, where over $2.4 million has been allocated from the Affordable Housing Fund to develop 18 homes designed for independent seniors. The project is managed by Les Entreprises MNM Inc. and strategically located near essential services, ensuring accessibility for its residents. In addition, the funding includes nearly $5.3 million sourced from the Rapid Housing Initiative for the construction of 21 family homes within the Mi'kmaq community of Eel River 3. This highlights the government’s commitment to not only increase housing supply but also prioritize projects that benefit Indigenous Peoples and other marginalized groups. The initiative aims to create 39 new housing units in total as part of a broader federal effort to tackle homelessness and improve living conditions for those in need. The initiative forms part of a larger strategy under the National Housing Strategy, which has a remarkable budget of $14.6 billion. These funds are allocated for various projects that focus on creating affordable housing specifically for individuals who experience various challenges, including seniors, Indigenous Peoples, and victims of domestic violence. As of September 2024, the Government of Canada has committed to supporting the creation of over 40,000 new housing units and the repair of approximately 166,000 existing units through the Affordable Housing Fund. The Rapid Housing Initiative, which is administered by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, plays a crucial role in expediting the construction of new dwellings and rehabilitating existing buildings to transform them into permanent affordable housing. It is expected that this initiative will create over 5,200 new homes in its current phase, with a significant portion allocated for women and families. The approach taken by the government reflects a broader understanding of the urgent need for housing and aims to address immediate requirements while laying a foundation for sustainable community growth.